GAZA to UKRAINE: Accountability as the Key to Ending Cycles of Violence
DILIP DAIMARY
In the face of relentless conflicts in regions such as Gaza and Ukraine, the United Nations’ High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, advocates for accountability as the linchpin to ending cycles of violence and fostering a sustainable path to peace.
In an exclusive interview with UN News, Türk shares insights into the ongoing crises, stressing the imperative need for accountability mechanisms to address human rights violations and prevent the recurrence of hostilities.
Gaza: A Humanitarian Tragedy Unfolding
The Gaza Strip stands as a tragic testament to the devastating consequences of conflict. Türk opens by expressing his outrage at the unfolding humanitarian crisis, with over 18,000 Palestinians, including a significant number of children, losing their lives in the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
He condemns the daily violation of human rights and international humanitarian law, emphasizing the challenges faced by humanitarian efforts, including the tragic deaths of UNRWA colleagues.
Türk underscores the urgency of accountability in any future arrangements, asserting that without accountability, grievances persist, hindering the establishment of a sustainable resolution. Despite the complexities, Türk remains optimistic, placing faith in the ongoing efforts of the human rights community and international institutions, such as the International Criminal Court, to address accountability issues in the region.
Ukraine: Prolonged Conflict and Human Rights Abuses
Shifting the focus to Ukraine, Türk acknowledges the prolonged conflict and routine human rights abuses perpetrated by Russian forces. He voices concern over ongoing killings and torture, particularly in areas occupied by Russian forces.
Türk emphasizes the necessity of accountability mechanisms and their role in ensuring justice for victims. Drawing parallels to historical milestones, Türk sees accountability as a deterrent, asserting that those who commit crimes may eventually face justice.
As winter exacerbates the situation in Ukraine, Türk commits to providing updates to the Human Rights Council, underscoring the importance of continued monitoring and reporting. He remains steadfast in his commitment to ensuring accountability serves the interests of all victims in the region.
The Power of Accountability in Global Conflicts
Throughout the interview, Türk consistently positions accountability as the central element—the “missing link”—in resolving conflicts worldwide. He contends that accountability acts as both a deterrent and a preventive measure, making non-compliance a costly proposition. Reflecting on historical contexts, Türk draws attention to the establishment of accountability mechanisms post-World War II, citing the Nuremberg Trials as a crucial development that contributed to building a system of accountability.
Human Rights Challenges and Progress Made
As Türk commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, he acknowledges both achievements and failures in the realm of human rights. Türk highlights progress made, such as countries pledging to abolish the death penalty, improve gender equality, and establish national human rights institutions. However, he notes the worrying pushback on gender and women’s rights globally, urging continued efforts to combat discrimination and persecution.
Challenges in the Global Democratic Landscape
Addressing challenges in upcoming global elections, Türk focuses on the erosion of democratic principles, rising polarization, and orchestrated disinformation campaigns. He emphasizes the need to detect early warning signals and counter disinformation through collaboration with social media platforms. Türk highlights the detrimental impact of hate speech on electoral processes and calls for concerted efforts to safeguard the integrity of elections.
Hope for the Future: A Groundswell of Support
Despite the daunting global landscape, Türk expresses hope, citing a groundswell of support for human rights among Member States, the private sector, and, notably, young people. He underscores the positive force that the younger generation brings to the human rights agenda, advocating for the recommitment to human rights as a transformative vehicle for a better world.
Türk’s Insights as a Roadmap for Change
Volker Türk’s interview provides invaluable insights into the ongoing crises in Gaza and Ukraine, underscoring the pivotal role of accountability in breaking the cycles of violence. His perspectives resonate as a roadmap for fostering hope, progress, and lasting change amid the myriad challenges faced by the international community.
As the world grapples with conflicts, Türk’s emphasis on accountability emerges as a beacon guiding humanity towards a future founded on principles of justice, human rights, and lasting peace.
17-12-2023
Headline Image: © OHCHR UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk speaks to the press. (file)
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